Senior benefits in Hardin County, Iowa

Northeast Iowa Area Agency on Aging (NEI3A) is the Area Agency on Aging for Hardin County. It helps older adults stay independent at home. Its services include options counseling, case management, meal programs, caregiver support, respite services, health and wellness programs, advocacy, and recreation and education programs. NEI3A has offices in Decorah, Dubuque and Waterloo. Call toll-free 1-800-779-8707 to get started.

Estimated service value: $200–$2,000 a year

The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is a one-time payment that helps eligible low-income households pay part of their winter heating costs. You do not need to be behind on your bill to apply. Mid-Iowa Community Action (MICA) takes LIHEAP applications for people who live in Hardin County. Applications start October 1 for seniors or people with disabilities and November 1 for all other families, and are accepted until April 30. Households must meet income guidelines and have an energy burden. Crisis help may be available if you have a disconnect notice or are shut off. Apply online, by mail, or in person at Hardin County Family Services, 637 S. Oak Street in Iowa Falls. Call 641-752-7162 (the menu reaches all offices).

Estimated bill savings: $80–$800 a year

Hansen Family Hospital in Iowa Falls runs the Spirit of Sharing (SOS) Charity Program for patients who do not have the personal resources to pay for their care, especially when paying would cause severe economic or social hardship. To apply, fill out the Spirit of Sharing form and send it to Patient Financial Services (Attention: Business Office, SOS Coordinator, 920 South Oak Street, Iowa Falls). Call 641-648-7018. Monthly payment plans with 0% interest are also offered through AccessOne.

Estimated bill savings: about $0 a year

Peoplerides is the low-cost public transit service for trips that start or end in Hardin, Marshall, Poweshiek and Tama counties, including Hardin County. Everyone qualifies to ride, regardless of age, income or disability, and vehicles are handicapped accessible. Peoplerides runs Monday through Friday, 7:30 AM to 4:30 PM. Schedule at least one day ahead for priority; same-day rides depend on driver availability. Call the dispatchers at 641-752-6202 or toll-free 1-888-616-4298. Medicaid-funded rides must be booked through the Medicaid transportation broker.

Estimated service value: $150–$1,500 a year

The Hardin County Veterans Affairs office at 1201 14th Avenue, Eldora, IA 50627 helps veterans and their families. The Hardin County Veterans Service Program helps veterans and their dependents apply for federal benefits, including service-connected disability compensation, pension, DIC, home loan certificates, aid and attendance, overpayments, appeals and admission to the Iowa Veterans Home. It also helps get military records and awards and gives out grave markers and flag holders. Call the office at 641-939-8240.

Estimated cash: about $0 a year